What Is the Best Roofing Material for Canadian Winters?

Canada enjoys four different seasons along with harsh snowy conditions in winter. Its weather goes from extremely hot to cold because of the gusts of the arctic region. Canadian winter weather drops below freezing point, making it uncomfortable to live in sometimes. The use of the right materials in your home’s structure and also the right Metal roofing construction company can improve the temperature inside.

Going from intense heat to winter conditions of below freezing point demands that your roof is strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. Read about the best roofing materials suitable for Canadian winter weather below.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs come in at the top of this list because of their advantages in the winter season. They can withstand rapid weather fluctuations. Metal roofs shed snow, making them suitable for the residents of Canada. They are also much more durable than other types of materials.

Metal roofs come in different types and colors. They can last for more than 30 years. If you are looking for a roof that can withstand the seasons, getting a metal roof might be the right choice for you. Although they can be costly as compared to other options. Metal roofs are fire resistant and come with pleasant designs with a beautiful appeal.

Asphalt Roofs

Almost 70% of homes in Canada have asphalt roofs. This makes them the most common material for roofs in Canada. It is an inexpensive material and comes in various colors. Asphalt also looks beautiful after installation.

However, asphalt material may not last as long as a metal roof. You usually have to replace them after 20 years or so. This balances out the cost required for metal roofs and asphalt roofs. Moreover, asphalt shingles don’t provide any insulating effects in winter. They reflect the sunlight, and you may feel cold inside your home with them.

Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete roof tiles are another option that is durable and can withstand almost all kinds of extreme weather conditions. Concrete tiles are a combination of sand, gravel, and cement. This makes them strong and unbreakable.

However, a drawback of installing concrete roofs is that they are much heavier than other materials. Installing one layer of concrete roof is similar to installing three layers of asphalt roofs. Therefore, your roofs must be strong enough to bear this weight. It is recommended that you consult with a professional roofing contractor before you plan on having this type of roof installed.

Slate

Slate is another durable material that can withstand harsh weather conditions. It is a durable choice for winter. Slate roofs are made of sedimentary rock. They are also heavy, and your roof must be capable of handling its weight.

Slate material provides good insulation and can help regulate the internal temperatures of your home. It also lasts for many years. However, the cost may be higher for its purchase and installation.

Rubber

Rubber material is also becoming common for use in roofs. It is long-lasting and is an easy to repair material. It is an insulating material that can absorb solar radiation which can help keep the temperature inside your home warm during winter. However, the cost is high for its installation as they are installed as individual shingles.

Which Is The Best Material Then?

Asphalt shingles and metal both are good materials for roofs. However, we recommend metal roofs more because of their extra longevity and durability. Metal roofs come in various materials such as steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. They come in a better variety of colors and types. Moreover, metal roofs are lighter than asphalt. You may not need to remove the previous shingle material to install them.